Fund Your Future with DRS

Jan 22 2025 56 ep. 20 mins 11
Fund Your Future with DRS Podcast artwork

A large part of planning for the future starts with how you approach your finances today. Explore some of the basics of financial planning, tools for managing your money and ideas for sparking conversations with friends and family. Join Retirement System employees as they tackle the stigma around money and share their personal financial journeys.

  Business  Education  Government
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Ep 56 - Affordable staycations in Washington state

Jan 22 2025 20 mins  
During the chilly winter months, you might be thinking about planning that spring or summer vacation. But you don't have to spend money on an expensive flight to get away. Sometimes it's nice to do a staycation and explore Washington state! From arid deserts to moss-covered rainforests, there's plenty to explore in your own backyard. Tune in to get some ideas for your next adventur

Ep 55 - ABLE savings plans for people with disabilities

Jan 08 2025 38 mins  
Millions of people with disabilities rely on federal programs. However, if they're receiving benefits like Supplemental Security Income (SSI) or Medicaid, they're restricted to having only $2,000 in assets. As a result, the Achieving a Better Life Experience (ABLE) act was passed in 2014. A Washington State ABLE Savings Plan allows people with disabilities to save, invest and prepa

Ep 54 - Pension plan funding with the WA state actuary

Dec 18 2024 22 mins  
Washington state pensions are calculated to be 94% funded. That rate is one of the highest rates in the country. We welcome Matt Smith, the Washington State Actuary, to talk about the latest Actuarial Valuation Report recently released by his office. He explains the significance of funded status, often misunderstood by many. Discover how ongoing evaluations and adjustments ensure l

Ep 53 - New Retirement Strategy Fund for DCP and Plan 3

Dec 04 2024 16 mins  
A new Retirement Strategy Fund (RSF) is coming to the lineup of investment options in Plan 3 and the Deferred Compensation Program (DCP). The most recent addition – the 2070 Retirement Strategy Fund – will be available beginning Jan. 6, 2025. We sit down with Chris from AllianceBernstein to talk about how these funds work and support you through retirement.

Ep 52 - A guide to Washington state parks and passes

Nov 20 2024 18 mins  
Planning a get-a-way doesn't have to be expensive. In this episode, we're joined by Ariel from Washington State Parks to explore the budget-friendly recreational opportunities available across 140 state parks. From the popular Discover Pass to several discounted options for those over age 62 and multiple free days in the year, you can access these natural treasures without breaking

Ep 51 - Credit scores and freezing your credit

Nov 06 2024 28 mins  
Your credit score plays a crucial role in your financial health. So, it’s important to know how to manage and improve your credit. Our guests, Lyn and Nathan from the Department of Financial Institutions, break down the differences between credit scores and credit reports. They also share insights into the importance of checking your credit report regularly and the benefits of fr

Ep 50 - Social Security: understanding provisions for public employees

Oct 16 2024 25 mins  
Editor's note: In December 2024, Congress repealed the two provisions within Social Security benefits that we discuss in this episode. - Continuing our discussion of Social Security benefits, we focus on unique provisions that can apply to public employees. Some people assume all public employees participate in Social Security, but this isn't always the case. We explore why some go

Ep 49 - Social Security basics

Oct 02 2024 26 mins  
We dive into the essentials of Social Security benefits with special guest Kirk from the Social Security Administration. Kirk answers frequently asked questions about creating a My Social Security account, its benefits, and how to use online resources for your retirement planning. Learn how to qualify for Social Security retirement benefits, understand the calculations behind your

Ep 48 - Changes to Medicare Part D

Sep 18 2024 15 mins  
Significant changes are coming to PEBB Medicare Part D in 2025. Discover why these changes are being implemented, how they aim to reduce premiums and what specific plans will include Medicare Part D. Our guest is Ellen, who works as a Retiree Benefits Manager at the Washington State Healthcare Authority. She explains what this new change means for retirees and where to go for more

Ep 47 - Tips for choosing the best auto and home insurance

Sep 04 2024 25 mins  
Your auto and home insurance can have a significant impact on your budget, but it’s hard to know if you’re getting the best rate. Our guest, Amy from the Office of the Insurance Commissioner (OIC), joins us to provide tips on shopping around for insurance and the value of having an agent. Resources: Office of the Insurance Commissioner Podcast: OIC Answers